Quantum at UChicago

International Year of Quantum Science and Technology - 2025

Celebrating a century of progress in the groundbreaking fields of quantum science and engineering

The University of Chicago is celebrating the 2025 International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IYQ), which the United Nations declared to mark a century of progress in quantum science and engineering. The University has been a key part of a growing and flourishing quantum ecosystem in Illinois and beyond, working directly on groundbreaking research as well as catalyzing large-scale investments in quantum infrastructure in the Chicagoland area.

Quantum science and technology are expected to significantly impact discoveries in science, computing, communication, finance, medicine, navigation, logistics and other areas. Throughout the year, we’ll share articles, videos, and other content explaining just what quantum is, why it matters, and how this research will translate to faster computers, earlier cancer diagnoses, and jobs in Chicago’s South Side, across the nation, and around the globe.

Explore more:

The Quantum Ecosystem

The University of Chicago has assembled a world-class group of scientists and engineers who are leading the quantum revolution. In addition to our cutting-edge faculty in physics, engineering, and chemistry, we offer one of the nation's first doctoral programs in quantum science and engineering.

  • 20+ lab groups at PME and UChicago engaged in quantum research
  • Chicago region named an official U.S. Regional and Innovation Technology Hub for quantum technologies
  • Close partnerships with National QIS Research Centers at Argonne and Fermilab
  • Affiliated with Duality, the first accelerator program in the U.S. exclusively focused on supporting innovative quantum startups

More Quantum News

Computer Science: University of Chicago Announces Next Phase of Quantum Supercomputer Initiative, Supported by NSF Grant

UChicago and partners receive $4 million NSF grant to design next-generation quantum computers for broad scientific and educational access.

Advanced computer modeling predicts molecular-qubit performance

Scientists develop a computational method to design molecular qubits with precision, paving the way for advanced quantum technologies.

Big Brains podcast: Could plants unlock quantum medicine’s potential? with Greg Engel

By exploring the mechanics of photosynthesis, scientists could better understand disease


 

Scientists program cells to create biological qubit in multidisciplinary breakthrough

Researchers have designed protein qubits that can be produced by cells naturally, opening possibilities for precision measurements of tissues, single cells, or even individual molecules

Nature names UChicago top in nation for quantum

Institutional rankings show UChicago's quantum physics research outpaces Harvard, MIT


 

Argonne: Researchers zero in on a new material for quantum information storage

An irregularity in magnesium oxide, a commonly used material in microelectronics, may be suited for qubits 

Big Brains Podcasts

Could plants unlock quantum medicine’s potential? with Greg Engel

By exploring the mechanics of photosynthesis, scientists could better understand disease. Read the full transcript here.

Why Quantum Tech Will Change Our Future: The Day Tomorrow Began (Ep. 104)

Explore how foundational discoveries at UChicago have shaped quantum research. Read the full transcript here.

Why The Quantum Internet Could Change Everything, with David Awschalom (Ep. 53)

A world-renowned scientist explores quantum technology and why the future of quantum may be in Chicago. Read the full transcript here.

 

Photos: Quantum Research

All Quantum News